A LONG-STANDING supporter of Haddington Day Centre has stepped down as its chairman.

Bob Mitchell has been a supporter of the day centre since before it was set up in 1988, having been a member of the steering committee when the facility was first proposed.

Since 2005, he has been chairman of the board of trustees but stepped down from the role at the annual general meeting (AGM) earlier this summer.

Anne Browning has taken on the role as chairperson.

Mr Mitchell is still on the board, with representatives of the day centre hopeful he will continue to contribute to its annual Burns lunch, addressing the haggis.

The 75-year-old described the day centre as being “very close to my heart” and noted the changes over the years.

He said: “It started off as largely a drop-in centre where there was one member of staff. At that point, most of the people self-referred and that was of course in the premises on Church Street.

“Of course, over the years, it has become much more professional in many ways.

“Obviously the Care Inspectorate has become involved and that is great.”

The day centre first opened its doors on Church Street in 1988, before making the move to its current home on Neilson Park Road in 2015.

Caroline Scott, manager of the day centre, was pleased Mr Mitchell was going to remain a trustee.

Speaking to the Courier ahead of the AGM, she confirmed a successor had been identified.

She said: “Bob is a valued trustee and has been a great support to the centre and the staff over the years.

“He has seen the day centre change from a small drop-in facility to the day care service it is now.

“The staff, clients and trustees would like to thank Bob for his invaluable input over the years and look forward to working with him in his new role of trustee.”